Stewed gourd with salty pork belly is a comforting and flavorful dish, a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary culinary experience. The sweet, delicate gourd perfectly complements the rich, salty pork belly, resulting in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. This classic dish is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal preparation and readily available ingredients. Imagine the succulent pork, meltingly tender, nestled amongst the soft, subtly sweet gourd – a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It's a dish that warms the soul and satisfies the palate, equally perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
This recipe elevates the humble gourd to new heights, transforming it into a centerpiece worthy of praise. We’ll guide you through each step of the process, from selecting the perfect gourd to achieving that perfect balance of salty and sweet. Ready to embark on this culinary journey and create a truly memorable meal? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Pumpkin (mature)
- Pork belly
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
- Soup cubes: 2
- Crushed pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Coriander: 5 roots
- Garlic
- Mushrooms
- Coconut sugar: 5 tablespoons
- Seasoning sauce: 4 tablespoons
- Dark soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Spring onions
- Coriander (for garnish)
- Garlic gel
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice and roast the pumpkin. Once cool, peel off the skin and cut into 4 parts. Cut out the seeds carefully.
- Cut the pumpkin into equal pieces (about 1 inch wide).
- Cut the spring onions and coriander into pieces.
- Cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2. Cook the Pork Belly and Season
- Put a pot of water on the stove and bring to a boil. Add the pork belly, salt, soup cubes, crushed pepper, coriander, and crushed garlic.
- Season with coconut sugar, seasoning sauce, and dark soy sauce. Mix well.
Step 3. Add Gourd and Vegetables
- Add the pumpkin and mushrooms to the pot.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Add the chopped spring onions and coriander. Sprinkle with garlic gel.
Read more: Thai Beef Stew with Rice: A Melts-in-Your-Mouth Recipe
Tips
- Use mature pumpkin for a sweeter, mellower flavor.
- Be careful when cutting the pumpkin seeds.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 500-700
- Fat: 30-45g
- Carbs: 40-60g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of gourd?
Yes! Butternut squash, kabocha squash, or even pumpkin can be substituted, though cooking times may vary. Adjust accordingly.
2. What if I don't have salty pork belly?
You can use regular pork belly and add extra salt to taste, or substitute with smoked pork shoulder or even a good quality bacon for a smokier flavor.
3. How do I know when the gourd is cooked?
The gourd should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. If it still feels firm, continue to simmer for a few more minutes.
This simple yet elegant Stewed Gourd with Salty Pork Belly recipe is a testament to the magic of uncomplicated cooking. Enjoy the satisfying flavors and textures of this dish, perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal shared with loved ones. We hope you enjoyed making this recipe as much as we enjoyed sharing it with you!